Teenagers in Horncastle say cannabis and other illegal drugs are available on the town’s streets, the News can reveal.

Their claim comes after a 67-year-old mother was convicted of running a major drugs industry in Horncastle.

Pauline Boddy, formerly of Wharf Road, was last week found guilty of supplying cannabis following a four day trial at Lincoln Crown Court.

Her co-defendant and son, Adrian Boddy (48), was found not guilty.

The pair were charged in April 2014 after 140 cannabis plants were discovered at Boddy’s Wharf Road flat.

It followed a police raid and an execution of a Misuse of Drugs Act warrant several months earlier.

Mrs Boddy will be sentenced on March 26.

Speaking after the case, PC Diane Young said: “This was a substantial amount of cannabis, suggesting that Mrs Boddy was heavily involved in the local supply of the drug. Her arrest and the seizure of the plants potentially disrupted a very significant industry in the town.

“The judge has warned Mrs Boddy to expect a custodial sentence and I hope that will serve as a warning to others who may be involved in such criminality.”

A News reporter spoke to a group of teenagers - all aged 16 or over - last Friday evening. The interview followed a tip off by residents that drugs were being sold, just yards from the town’s historic St Mary’s Church.

None of the youths wanted to be identified. A 17-year-old denied any of the group took drugs but added: “Everyone knows it’s easy (to get drugs) - if you want them and if you know where to ask.

“It’s the same in every town. They can’t stop it.”

Another 17-year-old added: “If you hang around certain places in town, you’ll get asked.

“I don’t use - it’s stupid - but I know kids who do.”

A 19-year-old said he thought cannabis should be legalised and added: “There are a lot worst things in life.”

The News spoke to Horncastle Police after the interview and was told the town did not have a ‘substantial’ drugs problem.

Sources have told the News that officers regularly patrol known hot-spots, including disused buildings.

Sergeant Adam Syred said: “Although Horncastle does not have a substantial drugs problem, no town is immune and, along with enforcement, education is crucial.

“The Neighbourhood policing Team enjoys excellent relationships with the town’s secondary schools who welcome the PCSOs into the classroom on a regular basis to deliver drugs talks.

“Local intelligence is clearly very important in identifying where we direct our drug enforcement activity and here the community can play a vital role.

“If you suspect illegal drug taking is happening in your neighbourhood, or you have any information which might help us target offenders, inform us.